Steven Spielberg, Dolly Parton and Andrew Llyod Webber were among the iconic stars honored in Washington for their contribution to American Culture.
The dinner, held by the Kennedy Centre, was hosted by Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice who praised the work of another award recipient, Smokey Robinson.
Spielberg, Webber, Parton and Robinson were joined by Indian born conductor Zubin Mehta for his work in classical music.
When introducing Robinson, Rice admitted to attending his show on her first date but was accompanied by her father because "there was too much power in Smokey's soul".
Politically minded Spielberg promised to not venture into politics while at the White House event, saying his views would "remain in suspended animation for 48 hours."
The annual awards are now into their 29th year and honor those involved in film, television, music and theatre for their contribution to performing arts.
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